Despite opposition from journalism and open government groups, the Virginia State Board of Elections has pushed back the deadline for campaign finance reports to 11:59 p.m. The reports used to be due at 5 p.m. before complains from politicians.
“While the change makes it easier for those who file, it makes it more difficult for reporters who cover campaigns in a timely way,” Virginia Capitol Correspondents Association President Craig Carper told the board, as reported by The Richmond Times-Dispatch.
The change came without public notice or comment before Gov. Terry McAuliffe asked the board to seek public input. Politicians had complained about the deadline, which has led to fines for multiple campaigns.